EU member state ambassadors held an extraordinary debate on Serbia following the adoption of judicial laws that the European Commission considers a step backwards in the rule of law. Several countries — including Scandinavian and Baltic states and the Netherlands — expressed serious concern and called for considering a suspension of payments from the EU Growth Plan if the legislation remains in force or if Serbia ignores the forthcoming Venice Commission opinion. Others welcomed Belgrade’s pledge not to apply the laws until the opinion is issued. A separate group of member states, including France and Italy, urged a balanced approach, warning that suspending funds could undermine Serbia’s EU path and strategic alignment. The discussion also touched on anti-EU rhetoric and Serbia’s stance at the UN, highlighting divisions within the EU on how to respond. Read more here.
Source and photo credit: European Western Balkans
